Applicants from non-English-speaking countries must demonstrate English proficiency.

Unless an applicant is a native English speaker or received the college/university degree from an English-medium institution, s/he must have a minimum TOEFL score of 600 (paper-based) or 100 (internet-based). TOEFL scores are valid for two years from the test date. Learn more at the TOEFL website »

International students must submit a Declaration of Finances form.

International students must have financial resources sufficient to support themselves for the calendar year, in addition to an international-student deposit of $3,000 (USD). Download PDF »

After You Are Accepted

After admission is granted and financial documentation and degree confirmation are received, Southern Adventist University issues a letter of acceptance and the I-20 Form. The letter and form must be presented to the U.S. consular officer when applying for a student visa. Only students approved by the Immigration and Naturalization Service may enroll. Southern does not accept visas issued for admission to other institutions.

International students admitted to graduate study are encouraged to arrive on campus two weeks prior to the beginning of classes. They should contact the international student adviser as soon as they arrive. Graduate Studies must be notified of any change in the entering date after admission has been granted.

All international students with student visas are required to be enrolled in a full course study (a minimum of nine graduate credit hours) for each semester in attendance.

International students with student visas may work on campus provided that employment is available and provided that the student is enrolled in a full course of study and is making progress to the completion of a degree. On-campus employment is limited to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and 40 hours per week during university vacation days.

Don't Leave Home Without These Items

International students should not leave their homeland until they have in their possession: